Upon hearing the phrase “Belgian interiors”, if you are not able to picture what this style looks like immediately, and that’s alright. This guide is here to reveal what’s Belgian and what is all the rage these days.
I was doing my research on Belgian-style interiors while waiting to be called out by my dentist in his clinic. Thanks to my Spectrum Internet plan, I can stay busy in situations like these. An interior designer said that it was more likely that the style had crept into the house of someone you know already. He is right! One of my friends just bought raw wood furniture! A great quality of the Belgian style is its effortlessness and the laid-back approach. It’s minimalistic, simple, and creates a lively space. This low-key luxury style interior is having a moment!
Tag along to learn more about Belgian interiors…
Introducing Belgian Style Interiors
Belgian style interior features neutral colors paired with rich color palettes and unfinished woods. You may compare the energy of Belgian-styled interior to shabby chic aesthetics. The Belgian décor has a clean and exhale-inducing quality which sets it apart from the conventional or chic style interiors.
Warm and neutral hues combined with organic materials and oversized furniture create a rich and elegant feeling. It invites the visitor to sit down and style for a while. The beauty of the Belgian aesthetic is there is plenty of room to personalize the space.
You may call it the updated version of the classic Flemish and Dutch interiors from the 17th century. Trend watchers say that the modern Belgian interior is defined by Axel Vervoordt. When he was 21 (in the 1970s), Vervoordt bought a small street in Antwerp and started redecorating the medieval houses there. He developed the reputation of a designer because of his and quickly received international acclaim. Since then, his style became synonymous with Belgian modern style.
Decorating Your Home in Belgian Style
Belgian beauty has received lots of praise from interior designers. The key is to create a nice balance between old and new elements and emphasize on natural elements. Ready to give your home a makeover with Belgian style? Start with this…
Warm and welcoming hues
Neutral colors add warmth and peace to a living space. But neutral colors alone won’t do the trick. Just choose an interior that leans towards light and airy unfinished wood. Natural stones of grays and beiges would be stunning additions as well.
Add linen
It’s a longstanding key natural ingredient in Belgian-inspired homes. Linen curtains are light yet elegant. Plus, it’s super simple to incorporate this material into your home. Window treatment is all that’s needed.
Pick elements from nature
Organic materials like stone, natural wood, and ceramics are perfect. No need to add polished furniture items. Instead, opt for interiors that are in their natural forms such as chalky ceramics and raw wood.
Unpolished metal
Add decor pieces featuring unpolished metal with old-world-like character and a matte finish.
Use oversized furniture
Oversized furniture is a staple of Belgian aesthetics. The key is not to use much. Just one or two large pieces of furniture that add value to your space are enough.
Patina
Patina style is rich in timeworn and vintage elements. It refers to a thin layer formed on the surface of brass, bronze, copper, and similar other metals. It’s a tarnish produced by oxidation. Even a single element of patina such as an antique sculptural artwork would do the trick.
Texture rules
Belgian style relies on texture to create an impact. This texture could be in the form of tactile objects or rough wood and metal. Small touches of fur or logs of wood piled next to the fireplace during winter will add depth and flavor to your space. Another way to use texture is by covering the wooden floors with natural fiber rugs. This will add personality to the room as well.
Adding texture is important no doubt, but be careful not to overwhelm the room. Belgian interiors are recognized by their minimalism.
Old meets new
Old accents merged with brand new items for creating a visually layered look is one of those components that make this aesthetic so dynamic. Pendants in Belgian rooms are quite common to add a modern feel to a space featuring old-world style décor.
Plenty of natural light
Since so much emphasis is placed on nature, it shouldn’t go without saying that Belgian rooms are rich in natural light. Sunlight works like magic in making the aesthetics appear warm, soft, and inviting.
Minimum clutter
While decorating your space with organic layers and oversized furniture, don’t forget that Belgian homes are virtually clutter-free. This style is defined by simplicity so don’t make the place overwhelming, keep it as minimalistic as possible much like a Scandinavian retreat.
Branches instead of flowers
There is plenty of foliage outside that can be brought inside. Instead of flowers that can make the space busy, opt for a simple branch or fern. Branches pair well if large elements exist in the room already. Use a clear glass or antique metal vases to keep the branches. You also can beauties by Ornamental Trees .
Slip in some colorful pop-ups here and there
If you are a bit extravagant and thinking Belgian-like simplicity is not for you, think again.
Too much beige and brown can make the space look sleepy, no doubt. To add a shot of color, use texture and accessories to your advantage. For instance, add fuzzy orange pillows. Who says you can’t be sassy with Belgian! The only thing to remember is to not make things overwhelming, otherwise, you will be losing the Belgian essence.
Summing Up
Belgian style is somewhere between shabby and chic. It has soft comfort which is highly inviting. For homeowners who would like to take a break from the busy modern interiors, this close-to-nature interior is a perfect getaway. Your house will become a home with peace and tranquility everywhere. Keeping the decor simple will save you some bucks as well.
If you’re ready for a Belgian makeover, now is the time!
